Ride an abra or water taxi to the Waterfront Market

For market lovers, Dubai’s new 24-hour shopping hub is now literally a boat ride away. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has opened a marine transit station at the Deira Waterfront Market, adding an easy route for marketgoers living close to waterfront areas.

“We have built a marine transport station at Deira Waterfront Market and started the operation of abra service between the Waterfront Market Station and Al Gubaiba Marine Transport Station,” said Nazm Faisal, director of Marine Transport at RTA’s Public Transport Agency. “The Water Taxi service will be launched later in the area.”

Located at the intersection of Al Khaleej and Abu Hail streets on the Deira Corniche, the Waterfront Market offers the same fresh goods and other commodities as the old Deira Fish Market, but in a mall-like, air-conditioned venue. The Waterfront Market is also becoming a popular dining destination with a selection of restaurants.

“The move stems from our belief that marine transport has become key mobility means that caters to the needs of several community segments in Dubai residents,” said Faisal.

The fish section is open 24 hours every day

Aiza Castillo-Domingo

Essam Galadari, director and CEO of Ithra Dubai, the developer of the Waterfront, said: “The Marine Transport at the new Waterfront Market underscores RTA’s keenness to respond effectively to the mobility needs in vital areas in Dubai. The operation of abra service at the Waterfront Market will ensure a smooth traffic flow in the area, given the unique design and diverse shopping potentials of the market which is attracting huge numbers of shoppers.”

Market Hours

The fish section is open for 24 hours but closed for deep cleaning from 2-4pm (Saturday to Thursday) and 12-1.30pm on Fridays. The meat and poultry/fruit and vegetables/dry goods and spices section is open daily from 6am to 1am.